To link to the entire object, paste this link in email, IM or documentTo embed the entire object, paste this HTML in websiteTo link to this page, paste this link in email, IM or documentTo embed this page, paste this HTML in website

Skidmore News
Volume 61, Number 3 Thursday, February 19, 1981 Saratoga Springs, New York, 12866
Commentary on the Guardian Anaels
By Stephanie Weaver
Skidmore students gave a very positive reaction to the lecture given by Curtis Sliwa, leader of the controversial group, The Guardian Angels. This group was formed in February 1979, with the intention of becoming a safety patrol of the crime-infested subways of New York City. Sliwa was strongly defensive about his group, pulling the favor of the entire audience with him, yet controversy and doubt do remain. We received into the Skidmore community the very essence and spirit of the Guardian Angels and therefore can expect, with no opposing forces, to be swayed to their side. To balance this, we must critically look at both sides and realistically assess the Guardian Angels. Are they a beneficial implement to our society?
There is no question as to their effectiveness. In numerous documentaries published on the Angels, all mention the gratitude of women and senior citizens towards the group. With a group of Guardian Angels on the train, passengers can breath easily, knowing they will get home safely. The Angels have made over 100 citizen’s arrests, an impressive record, with no serious physical harm to any of them. They have extended their authority to other crime-ridden areas of the city, and even more impressive, have set up member groups in many other cities. Clearly, their system works.
Are their motives appropriate? If their philosophy is as Curtis Sliwa declares it is, they are definitely acceptable. “You must admit that there are criminal problems in New York City and that the present system is not dealing with them effectively,” Sliwa declared to his Skidmore audience. “I think we should learn to take care of each other — and that is why the Guardian Angels started — because once we all start looking out for each other, crimes, muggings, theft, rape — won’t exist.”
From this statement there is no doubt that the avowed goals are a humanitarian effort of a group of people. But what do the Guardian Angels benefit from this? This is an area in which critics howl at the feet of the members. “Publicity!,” they declare. “They have only one purpose, and that is to be on the front page of" every newspaper, on every medal given out for public service, and on every person’s lips! They are out for the fame!” W7hen questioned about these accusations, Sliwa became very impatient and angry. “There is no reason,” he stated, “that for the time and effort we put into our activities, that we should not receive appropriate acknowledgement. We deserve recognition!”
Do problems and conflicts arise with the existing system, namely the city police? There have been offers to have the Angels work with the police, all of which have been firmly refused. Apparently, in the areas the Angels patrol, it would be futile to work with the police because of the hostility directed toward all law enforcement officials. This explained, Sliwa concluded to the inquiry, “To be effective, we MUST remain independent.”
It must be accepted, however, that the New York City police are at some disadvantage with this group of over 1,000 members working independently and yet in the same areas, as the police. As with any two independent groups, there are communication problems, instances when the police do not know of activities concerning the Angels and are in an incommodious position. Without a doubt, if the two forces set up a system by which it was known where each was to patrol, the city could be covered more effectively, and if a crises arose, help could be rushed to a problem site quicker. This is an area that should be explored further.
Are the Guardian Angels qualified to carry on their practice? They do travel in numbers of at least eight, a marked potency. They are instructed in the martial arts, but this is a touchy area. When questioned, it seems that martial art classes are not required, and no degree of proficiency is needed before a member can go out on “runs”. Curtis Sliwa responded to this litigation by saying that they all were submitted to a test to determine if “they could defend themselves.” It seems, though, that the opposition has a legitimate gripe. Although no member of the Angels has been seriously accosted, this in no way guarantees that it will not happen. Martial Arts should be taught with a more organized and tougher approach. Psychologically, the group’s attitude and sheer numbers give a would-be mugger something to think about, but they should be able to defend themselves at a maximum level. Food for thought: a shot from a handgun could silence any expert in martial arts.
Do the Angels have enough knowledge to carry out law enforcement expediently? Sliwa thinks so. “Anyone has the common sense to know when something is being done wrong.” Nevertheless, on Sliwa’s admittance, crime in the urban areas has become so complicated and rampant that current measures are not incisive enough to control it, the conclusion being that briefing on the administration of law policies would not be out of order.
Another issue to be addressed is the possibility of other groups springing up. By the formation of the Guardian Angels, a precedent has been set, and the establishment of other groups in New York City with ideals, goals, and costumes dissimilar, could create a chaotic situation that criminals could take advantage of. This worries the police and City Hall. In answer, Sliwa retorted that in the two years they have been established, no other groups have been started. Again, this does not mean that it will never happen, and this issue must be recognized and dealt with.
We can not deny that this group called The Guardian Angels has prevented a substantial amount of human grief and senseless destruction. Even if fame is a priority for the group, with the American people crying out for heroes to emulate and worship, it would be contrary to deny them this well-earned position. If it is an incentive to do good, we should award it handsomely. There are other paths to gaining fame that are tragic, let them not seem more attractive. People need motivation in their lives, and the Angel’s organization provides this to people in an urban community with idle, itchy hands. This is not to deny that there are not flaws, the previous problems addressed are real. With such a useful tool in our society, it must be pared down to clean, simple, effective lines, much the way the stone wheel has developed into the modern, steel-belted radial tire. We at last have a group that seems to work; let us not condemn them prematurely.
Seth Naugler
Some Insight on Staff Selection
Yes, it’s that time of year again! Time for staff selections for next year and all that comes with it—fingernail biting and cigarette smoking during the interviewing period, and then the horrendous waiting after the interviews are over to see if your efforts have paid off.
As of Feb. 12, there were 120 applications picked up for approximately 35 staff positions campuswide. The selection process is very rigorous and purposely so, in order to get the best possible person for the job. Because of the monetary renumeration received for the positions (an R.A. gets room free and a Head Resident room and board), the selection committee wants to be sure to “weed out” those who are interested more in the money than in the job.
Many present staff members feel, however, that the monetary compensation isn’t enough for the job they are required to do. Considering that an R.A. puts about 35-40 hours per week into the job (naturally this changes with each individual’s situation), it comes out that they are getting paid approximately $1.00 per . hour. Some feel that this is much too low for the demanding job of a staff member, and others feel that they’re getting paid virtually nothing because they never see the money. As one R.A. put it, “I feel as though my father is getting paid for my hard work.”
I talked to Donald Hastings, the Director of Residential Life, and some present staff members about the selection process and staff in general. When asked about the qualities desired in a prospective staff member, Don Hastings said that the selection committee (made up of the 9 present Head Residents, Lisa Lavieri, and himself) are looking for a person with the following qualities: maturity, responsibility, leadership, adaptability, honesty, integrity, and good ol’ common sense. Naturally, these are just the basics, and he made sure to note that there is definitely no “standard” personality for the job.
As was mentioned, the selection process is very tough. It includes submitting 3 recommendations from administration and faculty, filling out a lengthy, in-depth application form, and going through several extensive interviews with the selection committee.
Having been a House Counselor before going for an R.A. or H.R. position can both help and hurt you. You are judged partially on your job as a House Counselor, so if you had a poor year it could be detrimental to your chances. However, if you did a good job it can help you, along with the fact that you know more of what the job entails than would a person with no previous staff experience. However, each person is judged individually on their own merits and all candidates are given equal consideration.
One of the largest qualms that people going out for staff seem to have is that of placement. R.A.’s and H.R.’s have absolutely no choice as to where they will be placed; that decision is made solely by the selection committee who places a
Continued on page 2
Inside The News
Cafe Penfield
Photo Essay Pages 4 & 5

Skidmore News
Volume 61, Number 3 Thursday, February 19, 1981 Saratoga Springs, New York, 12866
Commentary on the Guardian Anaels
By Stephanie Weaver
Skidmore students gave a very positive reaction to the lecture given by Curtis Sliwa, leader of the controversial group, The Guardian Angels. This group was formed in February 1979, with the intention of becoming a safety patrol of the crime-infested subways of New York City. Sliwa was strongly defensive about his group, pulling the favor of the entire audience with him, yet controversy and doubt do remain. We received into the Skidmore community the very essence and spirit of the Guardian Angels and therefore can expect, with no opposing forces, to be swayed to their side. To balance this, we must critically look at both sides and realistically assess the Guardian Angels. Are they a beneficial implement to our society?
There is no question as to their effectiveness. In numerous documentaries published on the Angels, all mention the gratitude of women and senior citizens towards the group. With a group of Guardian Angels on the train, passengers can breath easily, knowing they will get home safely. The Angels have made over 100 citizen’s arrests, an impressive record, with no serious physical harm to any of them. They have extended their authority to other crime-ridden areas of the city, and even more impressive, have set up member groups in many other cities. Clearly, their system works.
Are their motives appropriate? If their philosophy is as Curtis Sliwa declares it is, they are definitely acceptable. “You must admit that there are criminal problems in New York City and that the present system is not dealing with them effectively,” Sliwa declared to his Skidmore audience. “I think we should learn to take care of each other — and that is why the Guardian Angels started — because once we all start looking out for each other, crimes, muggings, theft, rape — won’t exist.”
From this statement there is no doubt that the avowed goals are a humanitarian effort of a group of people. But what do the Guardian Angels benefit from this? This is an area in which critics howl at the feet of the members. “Publicity!,” they declare. “They have only one purpose, and that is to be on the front page of" every newspaper, on every medal given out for public service, and on every person’s lips! They are out for the fame!” W7hen questioned about these accusations, Sliwa became very impatient and angry. “There is no reason,” he stated, “that for the time and effort we put into our activities, that we should not receive appropriate acknowledgement. We deserve recognition!”
Do problems and conflicts arise with the existing system, namely the city police? There have been offers to have the Angels work with the police, all of which have been firmly refused. Apparently, in the areas the Angels patrol, it would be futile to work with the police because of the hostility directed toward all law enforcement officials. This explained, Sliwa concluded to the inquiry, “To be effective, we MUST remain independent.”
It must be accepted, however, that the New York City police are at some disadvantage with this group of over 1,000 members working independently and yet in the same areas, as the police. As with any two independent groups, there are communication problems, instances when the police do not know of activities concerning the Angels and are in an incommodious position. Without a doubt, if the two forces set up a system by which it was known where each was to patrol, the city could be covered more effectively, and if a crises arose, help could be rushed to a problem site quicker. This is an area that should be explored further.
Are the Guardian Angels qualified to carry on their practice? They do travel in numbers of at least eight, a marked potency. They are instructed in the martial arts, but this is a touchy area. When questioned, it seems that martial art classes are not required, and no degree of proficiency is needed before a member can go out on “runs”. Curtis Sliwa responded to this litigation by saying that they all were submitted to a test to determine if “they could defend themselves.” It seems, though, that the opposition has a legitimate gripe. Although no member of the Angels has been seriously accosted, this in no way guarantees that it will not happen. Martial Arts should be taught with a more organized and tougher approach. Psychologically, the group’s attitude and sheer numbers give a would-be mugger something to think about, but they should be able to defend themselves at a maximum level. Food for thought: a shot from a handgun could silence any expert in martial arts.
Do the Angels have enough knowledge to carry out law enforcement expediently? Sliwa thinks so. “Anyone has the common sense to know when something is being done wrong.” Nevertheless, on Sliwa’s admittance, crime in the urban areas has become so complicated and rampant that current measures are not incisive enough to control it, the conclusion being that briefing on the administration of law policies would not be out of order.
Another issue to be addressed is the possibility of other groups springing up. By the formation of the Guardian Angels, a precedent has been set, and the establishment of other groups in New York City with ideals, goals, and costumes dissimilar, could create a chaotic situation that criminals could take advantage of. This worries the police and City Hall. In answer, Sliwa retorted that in the two years they have been established, no other groups have been started. Again, this does not mean that it will never happen, and this issue must be recognized and dealt with.
We can not deny that this group called The Guardian Angels has prevented a substantial amount of human grief and senseless destruction. Even if fame is a priority for the group, with the American people crying out for heroes to emulate and worship, it would be contrary to deny them this well-earned position. If it is an incentive to do good, we should award it handsomely. There are other paths to gaining fame that are tragic, let them not seem more attractive. People need motivation in their lives, and the Angel’s organization provides this to people in an urban community with idle, itchy hands. This is not to deny that there are not flaws, the previous problems addressed are real. With such a useful tool in our society, it must be pared down to clean, simple, effective lines, much the way the stone wheel has developed into the modern, steel-belted radial tire. We at last have a group that seems to work; let us not condemn them prematurely.
Seth Naugler
Some Insight on Staff Selection
Yes, it’s that time of year again! Time for staff selections for next year and all that comes with it—fingernail biting and cigarette smoking during the interviewing period, and then the horrendous waiting after the interviews are over to see if your efforts have paid off.
As of Feb. 12, there were 120 applications picked up for approximately 35 staff positions campuswide. The selection process is very rigorous and purposely so, in order to get the best possible person for the job. Because of the monetary renumeration received for the positions (an R.A. gets room free and a Head Resident room and board), the selection committee wants to be sure to “weed out” those who are interested more in the money than in the job.
Many present staff members feel, however, that the monetary compensation isn’t enough for the job they are required to do. Considering that an R.A. puts about 35-40 hours per week into the job (naturally this changes with each individual’s situation), it comes out that they are getting paid approximately $1.00 per . hour. Some feel that this is much too low for the demanding job of a staff member, and others feel that they’re getting paid virtually nothing because they never see the money. As one R.A. put it, “I feel as though my father is getting paid for my hard work.”
I talked to Donald Hastings, the Director of Residential Life, and some present staff members about the selection process and staff in general. When asked about the qualities desired in a prospective staff member, Don Hastings said that the selection committee (made up of the 9 present Head Residents, Lisa Lavieri, and himself) are looking for a person with the following qualities: maturity, responsibility, leadership, adaptability, honesty, integrity, and good ol’ common sense. Naturally, these are just the basics, and he made sure to note that there is definitely no “standard” personality for the job.
As was mentioned, the selection process is very tough. It includes submitting 3 recommendations from administration and faculty, filling out a lengthy, in-depth application form, and going through several extensive interviews with the selection committee.
Having been a House Counselor before going for an R.A. or H.R. position can both help and hurt you. You are judged partially on your job as a House Counselor, so if you had a poor year it could be detrimental to your chances. However, if you did a good job it can help you, along with the fact that you know more of what the job entails than would a person with no previous staff experience. However, each person is judged individually on their own merits and all candidates are given equal consideration.
One of the largest qualms that people going out for staff seem to have is that of placement. R.A.’s and H.R.’s have absolutely no choice as to where they will be placed; that decision is made solely by the selection committee who places a
Continued on page 2
Inside The News
Cafe Penfield
Photo Essay Pages 4 & 5